Aurora, Colo., Jul 27, 2012 / 05:55 pm (CNA).-
In his funeral homily for a parishioner killed in the July 20 shooting in Aurora, Father Martin Lally said God allows evil things to happen in order to allow and inspire good.

“While none of us can know precisely the mind of God, it is ... consistently proven that the response to evil acts is more powerful acts of kindness, compassion and courage,” Fr. Lally said July 28.

“Our presence here is a true sign that love is more powerful that evil; that a gentle presence is stronger than bullets.”

Parishioner Alexander (A.J.) Boik was one of 12 victims killed by a gunman who opened fire at a midnight showing of the newest Batman film, “The Dark Knight Rises.”

The 18-year-old graduated from high school in May and planned to start classes next month at a Denver art school.

Boik's family also released a statement, recalling how he dreamed of teaching art and opening his own studio.

“He was a talented young man ... with a warm and loving heart,” the family said.

Fr. Lally said he “can't help but smile” at memories of Boik, who loved life so much he “wanted to teach others how to create art that would beautify and enhance (it).”

“Those memories are treasures to family and friends,” Fr. Lally said. “Let us ... hope that our greatest testimony to AJ's life will be that we will, as he did, have high ambitions and firmness of purpose in our lives.”